BREAKING: Changes CONFIRMED at Big Thunder Mountain Attraction in Disney World

Magic Kingdom is going through some ch-ch-changes, and we are pretty darn excited about them!

A massive Cars expansion called Piston Peak is coming to Frontierland, the first-ever Villains Land is coming, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is currently going through a massive refurbishment. Speaking of which, Disney just dropped some exciting news about the updates coming to this ride, so let’s get into it!

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is getting some TLC at the moment, and we’ve been keeping up with the progress during its lengthy closure. Disney shared that the iconic ride will reopen sometime in 2026, and we have some additional details about the updates!

A new effect will happen “when the trains rattle their way underground to spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools,” illuminating stalagmites and stalactites — the RAINBOW CAVERNS! These were part of the original concept for Big Thunder before it was constructed, and we’re glad to see they’re getting some love here.

While we don’t have an official opening date just yet, Disney shared that one would be coming soon — so we’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for that.

We previously learned that as part of the Piston Peak changes, at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, “soaring geysers” will be added that will stretch into the trails of the off-road rally ride in the new area, blending the two areas seamlessly together.

According to Imagineers, you will also be able to walk through the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad geyser field for the first time and get a good look at it, and see those pathways and rainbow pools around the attractions.

We’ve also seen the track being replaced, which should provide a smoother ride. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is scheduled to be out of commission throughout the rest of the year.

We’ll be on the lookout for MORE updates about the Big Thunder Mountain Refurbishment and the latest news from Disney World. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to AllEars for the latest Disney news and more!

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